What is the best way to make burgundy with acrylic paints?

December 16, 2025 · caitlin

To create burgundy with acrylic paints, mix red and blue paints with a touch of brown. This combination will yield a rich, deep burgundy color. Adjust the proportions based on your desired shade, adding more red for warmth or more blue for depth.

How to Mix Burgundy with Acrylic Paints

Creating the perfect burgundy color with acrylic paints involves understanding the basic principles of color mixing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the ideal shade.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before starting, ensure you have the following materials:

Acrylic paints: Red, blue, and brown
Palette: For mixing colors
Paintbrushes: Various sizes for testing and application
Canvas or paper: To test your mixed color

Step 2: Start with Red and Blue

Begin by mixing equal parts of red and blue acrylic paint. This combination will create a basic purple hue. The specific shades of red and blue you choose can affect the final burgundy color:

Cadmium Red: Offers a warm, vibrant base
Ultramarine Blue: Provides a deep, rich undertone

Step 3: Add Brown for Depth

To transform your purple mix into burgundy, gradually add brown paint. This step is crucial for achieving the earthy richness characteristic of burgundy. Use a small amount at a time to avoid overpowering the mix.

Step 4: Adjust to Your Liking

Fine-tune your mixture by adjusting the proportions:

More Red: Creates a warmer, more vibrant burgundy
More Blue: Deepens the shade, adding coolness
More Brown: Enhances the earthiness and depth

Practical Example

Suppose you start with a ratio of 2 parts red, 1 part blue, and 0.5 parts brown. Test this mixture on a small section of your canvas to see how it dries, as acrylics can darken slightly. Adjust as needed to achieve your perfect burgundy.

Common Questions About Mixing Burgundy

What Colors Make Burgundy?

Burgundy is made by mixing red and blue to create purple, then adding brown for depth. The specific shades of each color can be adjusted to achieve the desired hue.

Can You Use Other Colors to Make Burgundy?

Yes, you can experiment with different shades of red and blue, such as Alizarin Crimson or Phthalo Blue, to vary the tone. Adding a touch of black can also deepen the color, but use it sparingly to avoid dullness.

How Do You Lighten or Darken Burgundy?

To lighten: Add white paint gradually to achieve a lighter burgundy or pinkish tone.
To darken: Incorporate a small amount of black or additional blue.

What Are Some Uses for Burgundy Paint?

Burgundy is versatile and can be used in a variety of applications:

Art projects: Adds depth and richness to paintings
Home decor: Perfect for accent walls or furniture
Fashion design: Ideal for creating fabric patterns

How Do You Ensure Consistent Color Mixing?

To maintain consistency, measure your paint ratios carefully and mix thoroughly. Keep a notebook of your ratios for future reference, especially useful for large projects.